TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) announced Monday (July 1) that the Southern Branch of the Academia Sinica (央研究院南部院區) will focus on cutting-edge technology research, including quantum technology.
The president made the announcement while attending the 35th Academia Sinica Convocation opening ceremony in the morning. In the evening, accompanied by Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴), he hosted a banquet for all members of Academia Sinica.
The attendees included former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁), Academia Sinica President James Liao (廖俊智), former Academia Sinica President Lee Yuan-tseh (李遠哲), and former Academia Sinica President Wong Chi-huey (翁啟惠).
Academia Sinica holds a convocation every two years, at which new academicians are elected for their outstanding academic achievements. This marks the significance of the occasion.
During his evening remarks, Lai expressed the government's hope of seeking valuable academic advice. Lai also outlined his three major missions: safeguarding the nation's development, upholding Taiwan's sovereignty against infringement, and uniting the public to protect the safety of 23.5 million people against authoritarian threats.
He also pledged to care for the economic well-being of all citizens and promote Taiwan's economic progress through digital and green transformations.
Lai stated that Taiwan is willing to engage in exchanges with China, provided mutual respect and dignity exist. He envisions a future of mutual assistance, shared prosperity, and peaceful coexistence.
The president expected the academicians to provide research results and gradually achieve their goals through unity and collaboration.